Steppenwolf gala nets $1.1 million

The Steppenwolf Theatre Company said Thursday it raised $1.1 million at its annual gala last Saturday — for its artistic, educational and community programming.

Items at the live auction including opening-night tickets to the upcoming Broadway production of "Of Mice and Men," starring James Franco. Although that production has yet to be offically announced, Franco has mentioned the project during TV appearances. The Steppenwolf release said ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro is to be the director.